Bringing a Dog Into the US: CDC Rules for Low-Risk Countries
Returning from Canada or Europe with your dog? Here is the CDC checklist.
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Since August 1, 2024, the CDC rules depend on where your dog has been in the 6 months before entry and where it was vaccinated. This guide covers the simplest case: a dog that has been only in dog rabies-free or low-risk countries. If a country is not on the CDC high-risk list, it counts as rabies-free or low-risk.
The checklist
- CDC Dog Import Form. The only required document for this case. Fill it out online; you get an emailed receipt to print or show on your phone. It is free, and each dog needs its own form.
- Age: at least 6 months old at entry.
- Microchip: detectable with a universal scanner. See our microchip guide.
- Healthy on arrival.
Dogs in this group can arrive at any US airport, seaport or land border crossing.
Receipt validity
The receipt is valid for 6 months. You need a new form if the dog visits a high-risk country or a different departure country.
Traveling with a dog? A GPS tracker helps in unfamiliar places.
Frequently asked questions
Does the CDC Dog Import Form cost money?
No. The CDC says it is free.
Can I reuse the form receipt?
Yes, for 6 months, as long as the dog has not been in a high-risk country and is departing from the same country listed on the form.
